Teboho Mokoena’s late penalty rescued a crucial 1-1 draw for South Africa against the Czech Republic on June 18, keeping Bafana Bafana’s hopes of reaching the World Cup knockout stage for the first time firmly alive.
South Africa looked destined for a second straight defeat after Michal Sadilek fired the Czech Republic ahead inside the opening six minutes, but Mokoena held his nerve from the spot seven minutes from time to earn a valuable point in Group A.
The result leaves both teams on one point from two matches, two points behind co-hosts Mexico and South Korea, who were due to meet later on June 18. Both South Africa and the Czech Republic will likely need victories in their final group matches to stand a realistic chance of progressing to the last 32.
The Czechs made a bright start and nearly opened the scoring within a minute when Patrik Schick headed wide from close range. They did not have to wait long for the breakthrough, however, as Adam Hlozek’s cross was expertly cushioned into Sadilek’s path by Alexandr Sojka, allowing the midfielder to calmly slot past goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.
South Africa struggled to create clear-cut opportunities for much of the contest, highlighting the attacking limitations that have hampered their return to the global stage. However, Hugo Broos’ side remained resilient and gradually grew into the game.
The Czechs missed several chances to extend their lead after the break and were ultimately punished late on when Thapelo Maseko’s effort struck the arm of Pavel Sulc inside the penalty area. Referee Tori Penso immediately pointed to the spot, and Mokoena confidently converted to score South Africa’s first World Cup goal in 16 years.
Buoyed by the equaliser, South Africa nearly snatched all three points moments later, but goalkeeper Matej Kovar denied Relebohile Mofokeng with a fine save.
“I think we deserved more today because we played a very good game,” said South Africa coach Hugo Broos. “If we can make another performance like today, I think we have a chance to go into the second round.”
Czech coach Miroslav Koubek lamented his side’s missed opportunities, saying they were closer to victory but failed to find the second goal that would have put the match beyond reach.
The draw sets up a tense final round of Group A fixtures, with South Africa facing South Korea and the Czech taking on Mexico at the iconic Estadio Azteca, where a place in the knockout rounds could still be up for grabs.
